WHAT DO QUESTIONS SAY ABOUT YOU?

So you landed that big interview! Now what? Prepare, prepare, prepare.

You cover all the expected bases: research the company, look at your key strengths and weaknesses, and dress the part. What most people forget to do is make a list of at least three questions to ask during the interview. An interview is a chance for not only the employer to learn more about you, but for you to learn more about the company. The questions that you ask allow you to gather more information about how the company works with clients, employees, and success.

This is your chance to figure out if this company is the right fit, as well as, if you’re the right fit for them. Employers base much of their opinion of a candidate on the questions they ask. It is important that when an employer asks if a you have any questions that you ASK! Not asking questions shows that your interest in them and their company isn’t high. If that message is established, it is unlikely they’ll want you as part of their company.

Here are the top 5 questions to ask:

· What do you see ahead for your company in the next five years?

· How will I be evaluated at this company, and how often?

· What are the career paths in this department?

· Could you describe a typical day or week in this position?

· Where have successful employees previously in this position progressed to within the company?

Asking these questions tells an employer that you want to succeed at their company. That you have the incentive and the drive to complete essential tasks and then some to get ahead. That you’re looking for a career and not just a job. Asking questions sends a great message to an employer and indirectly sells yourself to them. After all, an interview is about making yourself look good and stand out from others.

Finally, at the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask what the next steps in the interview process.